

CBSE Class 12 Physics Notes Chapter 11: The idea that particles, such as electrons, display both wave-like and particle-like qualities is explored in Chapter 11 of CBSE Class 12 Physics, "Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation," and is a fundamental idea in quantum mechanics. Important experiments like the photoelectric effect, which demonstrates that light is a particle, and de Broglie's hypothesis, which proposes that particles like electrons have a wavelength in common, are covered in this chapter.
For an understanding of atomic and subatomic processes, this concept of duality is essential. The chapter also discusses how these events have affected the development of quantum theory and how it is used in modern physics.CBSE Class 12 Physics Notes Chapter 11 PDF
Cathode Rays
A cathode ray is an atom's stream of rapidly moving electrons. They can be generated at low pressures, less than 0.001 mm of a mercury column, in a discharge tube.Properties of Cathode Rays:
Positive Rays
Positive rays were found by scientists Goldstein. They are referred to as the gas filled in the discharge tube's moving positive ions. The mass of the gas's atoms and these particles are the same.Properties:
Electron Emission
The work function of a metal is the least amount of energy needed by an electron to leave its surface. It is measured in electron volts (eV), and is represented by the symbol o. One electron volt(eV) is defined as the energy that the electron gains for accelerating by a potential difference of 1 volt. We can say that 1 eV = 1.602 × 10-19 J. The value of the work function is dependent on the properties of the metal and the nature of its surface. Electron emission is the process by which electrons escape from a metal's surface. It comes from the three procedures listed below. Thermionic: Heat transfers enough thermal energy to liberate electrons to allow them to separate off the metal surface. Photoelectric emission is the release of a metal surface's electrons when it is exposed to light at the right frequency. We refer to these electrons as photoelectrons. Field emission: Electrons can be extracted from metal by subjecting it to an electric field.Read More - Strategy to Solve Class 12 Sample Papers Efficiently
Hertz’s observations
Heinrich Hertz made the discovery of photoelectric emission in 1887 while conducting research on electromagnetic waves. He noticed that when light passes through a metal detector loop, the electrons on the surface gain enough energy to displace the positive ions' attraction force and exit into the surrounding area.Observation by Hallwach and Lenard
Through their research, scientists Hallwachs and Lenard found that there is a minimal cut-off frequency below which electrons cannot be released. The threshold frequency is thought to be at this frequency. Certain metals, such as zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), magnesium (Mg), etc., have been found to react to short-wavelength UV radiation by releasing electrons from their surfaces. Lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (P), caesium (Cs), and rubidium (Rb) are among the alkali metals that are light-sensitive.Photoelectric Effect- Experimental Study
The experimental setup consists of a metal plate (collector) and a photosensitive plate (emitter) attached to an evacuated glass/quartz tube. In the absence of air resistance, this tube will permit electrons to go from the emitter to the collector. The potential difference (V) between the two plates is sustained by the battery. The commutator has the ability to reverse the polarity.
Electrons are released and visible light is absorbed by the photosensitive plate, also known as the emitter. All of the electrons that are released by the emitter are collected by the metal plate (collector). A photoelectric current flow results from this (from emitter to collector). This is consistently in opposition to the electrons' directions. A voltmeter and current probe can be used to measure the potential difference (V) and current (I) between the plates.
Therefore, Einstein’s photoelectric equation is given as
Ek =h–o or
Ek =h–ho or
Ek =h(–o)
Particle nature of light:
The photoelectric effect provides proof that light behaves as quanta, or energy packets with an h-value, when it interacts with matter. The particles' motion and energy have distinct values. A photon was identified as this particle.
Wave nature of Matter:
The wave nature of matter is a concept in quantum mechanics that suggests that all particles exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties. This idea was first proposed by the French physicist Louis de Broglie in 1924 and is a fundamental aspect of quantum theory. It was proposed by de Broglie. The wavelength is given as = hp=hm where p is the momentum. Davisson-Germer Experiment: In 1927, Davisson and Germer established the material particle's de Broglie's wave character; GP Thomson confirmed this same fact in 1928. This experiment has been verified using Ni crystal. Davisson and Germer discovered that at various scattering angles, the electron beam's intensity varies. At a potential difference of 54 V, it reaches its maximum for a 50° diffraction angle. The wavelength is specified as = 12.27VA
Photocells are used in television cameras to capture and broadcast scenes as well as to replicate sound in motion images. Photoelectric cells are used in the manufacturing sector to find microscopic imperfections in metal sheets.
Working Principle :
Applications:
Light Meters : Used in photography to measure the intensity of light and determine the correct exposure settings.
Automatic Lighting : Common in streetlights that automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn.
Solar Panels : Convert sunlight directly into electrical energy, using the principles of the photoelectric effect.
Safety Devices : Used in burglar alarms and other security systems to detect interruptions in a light beam.
Foundation in Quantum Mechanics : This chapter provides a fundamental understanding of quantum mechanics, a critical area in modern physics. It introduces key concepts like wave-particle duality, essential for further studies in physics and related fields.
Conceptual Clarity : The chapter helps students grasp complex ideas like the photoelectric effect, de Broglie's hypothesis, and Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle. This clarity is crucial for performing well in exams and developing a strong foundation for higher education.
Application-Oriented Learning : Understanding the dual nature of matter and radiation has practical applications in technologies like semiconductors, lasers, and electron microscopes. This knowledge is vital for students pursuing careers in engineering, technology, and research.
Exam Preparation : Comprehensive notes on this chapter help in effective revision and preparation for board exams. The chapter often features in competitive exams like JEE and NEET, making it a high-scoring topic.
Critical Thinking Development : The concepts in this chapter encourage students to think critically and question classical physics ideas, fostering a deeper understanding of the physical world.
